01:03:35A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the METCO (Metropolitan Council for Educational Opportunity) program, a longstanding initiative aimed at increasing diversity within Reading Public Schools by integrating students from Boston. The board discussed the program’s impact on both students and the broader community, highlighting its role in expanding cultural perspectives and fostering inclusivity.

01:31:27Testimonies from students and staff underscored the program’s positive effects. One student shared their appreciation for the support they received, which helped them navigate the challenges of being from Boston in a predominantly white community. Staff members echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the benefits of the program not only for Boston students but also for the broader Reading community. They noted that the program broadens perspectives and strengthens community ties.

51:19The board addressed the ongoing challenges of recruiting diverse staff to better support METCO students. The presence of coordinators and counselors has expanded, with an increase from one to six counselors and two coordinators. This expansion is seen as crucial in meeting the social and emotional needs of students and fostering deeper connections between families and schools. However, there remains a need for continued efforts to recruit staff that reflect the diversity of the student body.

01:50:34Efforts to further enhance the program include the appointment of Cindy Marte as co-director and the addition of a full-time METCO school counselor at the middle school level. These developments are part of a broader strategy to strengthen the program and improve educational outcomes for all students involved.

The board also discussed the search for a new CEO for the METCO program, following the announcement of the current CEO’s departure. This search aims to identify a leader who can continue to advance the program’s mission and navigate its complex dynamics within the community.

In addition to the METCO program, the board addressed a funding allocation derived from an opioid settlement. This transfer of funds to Reading local schools, in collaboration with the Reading Coalition, aims to convert a part-time health teacher position into a full-time role for three years. This initiative addresses community health education needs, particularly in the district’s middle schools, and represents a strategic use of one-time funds to enhance educational resources.

10:54The meeting also covered various library projects, including updates on the library terrace project and the “Rooted in Reading” initiative, both aimed at enhancing community engagement and environmental awareness. The library terrace project, funded by the Reading Public Library Foundation, is set to involve community input and is scheduled for construction later in the year. The “Rooted in Reading” project, supported by an LSTA grant, focuses on positioning the library as a hub for green community initiatives. This includes the enhancement of the library’s front garden with sensory plants and native gardens, as well as the popular seed library.

12:52The board highlighted the importance of community participation in these projects and emphasized the need for ongoing collaboration with local stakeholders. Discussions about acknowledging the Reading Public Library Foundation with a plaque were held, recognizing their contributions to library projects and resource enhancements.